Movie Review: Murder on the Orient Express

Director Kenneth Branagh brings Agatha Christie's 'Murder On The Orient Express' back to the big screen. Warning: before you hop aboard this new train, here's is my review...

The basics are in the title, of course. Everyone boards the Orient Express. There’s a murder. Poirot has to solve the case. A much as this movie has amazing cinematography and a great cast, it instantly goes off the rails almost from the start. Actually, the beginning scene was probably my favorite scene of the entire movie. Make no mistake, Kenneth Branagh’s remake of the Agatha Christie classic is dressed to the nines from the stunning costumes (one particular red dress, I immediately fell in love with and must have it in my closet!) sorry going off subject here, to the spectacular scenery of the snow-capped Alps. But overall to me, “Orient Express” spins its wheels until it loses all steam.

To me, the true failing in this movie is its lack of pacing and suspense. Though the film is surrounded by a great cast, from Dame Judi Dench to the emerging Daisy Ridley, and big stars like Penélope Cruz, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, there are very few memorable moments by these casts and they just mostly went through the motions. In terms of goosebumps and gasps, it’s a train wreck. The plot is supposed to be juicy for those who love a good murder mystery game. Stranded in the snow, in a bloody murder plot, these strangers on a train must tell their darkest secrets for Europe’s most famous private eye detective who is also board on the train. And BOOM! you are supposed to have suspenseful moments that is full of twists and dark plots and has you guessing non-stop at the edge of your movie seats. Unfortunately, you feel just as stuck as the train.

I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars. If you see this movie, let me know your thoughts. Have a great weekend everyone! -xo Mel